President Donald Trump has announced he is teaming up with golfing legend Jack Nicklaus to undertake significant renovations to the golf courses at Joint Base Andrews, adding the historically significant facility to his growing list of construction initiatives.
Presidential Tour and Renovation Plans
The president conducted an aerial survey of The Courses at Andrews from Marine One on Saturday, confirming that substantial work is planned for the recreational facilities. Located in Maryland, approximately 15 miles from the White House, the base is home to Air Force One and features three 18-hole golf courses that have hosted presidents since Gerald R. Ford first played there in 1974.
Trump told reporters before departing for the base, "We're doing some fix-up of the base, which it needs. We're gonna try and reinstitute the golf courses. I'm meeting with the greatest Jack Nicklaus." The president specifically noted that at least two of the courses would receive facelifts, describing them as being in "very bad shape" due to years of insufficient maintenance.
Questions Surround Funding and Costs
The announcement immediately raised questions about financial arrangements for the project. As military property, it remains unclear whether taxpayers or private sources would cover the costs of Nicklaus Design services and course improvements. The White House and Andrews public affairs team had not provided clarification by Saturday.
Nicklaus Design, founded by the 18-time major championship winner, has completed more than 425 courses worldwide. While Trump infrequently golfs at Andrews—preferring his own properties in New Jersey, Florida, and Virginia—he emphasized that the renovations could be accomplished for "very little money."
Broader Pattern of Presidential Projects
The Andrews redesign follows other Trump-commissioned projects including the $300 million ballroom currently under construction at the White House, which required demolition of the East Wing. Previous renovations under Trump's administration have included replacing the Rose Garden lawn with a Mar-a-Lago-inspired patio, redecorating interior spaces, and adding substantial golden flourishes to the Oval Office.
Trump has stated the ballroom project is funded by himself and private donors, including 37 disclosed contributors. The Andrews project may eventually join other off-White House initiatives like the proposed Paris-style arch near the Lincoln Memorial.
